I’ve been waiting for the snow to officially melt to really hunker in and tackle this entry area. After months of living with boots, bulky coats, and bags tossed in a heap by the door, it finally feels like the right time to reset.
We live in a small apartment, so this space is essential. It’s the first thing we see when we walk in, and it sets the tone for our day. Ideally, it would look beautiful too—but more than anything, it needs to function. This refresh isn’t about a makeover or spending money—it’s about creating order, flow, and ease with what we already have.
Seasonal Transitions as a Cue to Reset
I always begin with a good old-fashioned clean-out. Everything comes out. Winter coats are packed away. Outgrown boots get sorted and donated. It’s a physical process, yes—but it’s also mental.
I love using the seasons as a natural rhythm for resetting our home. There’s something comforting about letting the changing weather guide you: keep what you truly need, and gently release the rest.
When we tune into those shifts—like the way early spring light floods the hallway, or how we no longer need thick mittens by the door—we naturally begin to notice what’s no longer serving us.
Designing for Real Life with Kids in Mind
My goal wasn’t to renovate this space, but to make it work—really work—for our family. With two small kids, independence matters. That’s why I added lower hooks at their height: so they can grab their coats and hang them back up without needing help.
It’s a small thing, but it’s something I always come back to—giving children opportunities to participate in the home. I want them to grow up knowing what it feels like to care for a space, to contribute. That sense of responsibility starts with little things like tidying their shoes or putting away their backpack.
Simple Shoe Storage and Everyday Maintenance
Next came the shoes. This space has been a drop zone for footwear of every kind, and honestly, it wasn’t working. So I simplified. I created a designated spot for each person’s most-used shoes and cleared out anything seasonal or excessive.
And you know what? It’s already making a difference. Just a few days in, and the entryway is easier to maintain. We’re not tripping over stray sandals or hunting for missing sneakers. It’s calm. Doable. Sustainable.
The Power of a Thoughtful Entryway
This space may be small, but it carries a lot of weight. It welcomes us home. It sends us off into the world. And now, instead of chaos, it offers a sense of calm.
To me, that’s what creating a home is all about—not perfection, but intentional choices. Finding what works. Letting it be simple. Slowing down enough to notice what your space—and your season—are asking of you.
Want to See the Full Refresh?
You can watch the full transformation over on my YouTube channel in the Creating Your Home series. I’ve already shared the kitchen and the bedroom, and next up, we’ll be tackling the closets.
👉 Watch the entryway episode here
Thanks so much for being here. I hope this post inspires you to look at your own entryway with fresh eyes and maybe make a few simple changes that bring ease to your everyday.
With intention,
Katelyn
